Air Terjun Kanto Lampo Waterfall in Bali: Scenic Cascades Totally Worth a Visit (Plus Ideas for 5 Other Places to Visit in the Area)

Air Terjun Kanto Lampo waterfall in Bali

Air Terjun Kanto Lampo waterfall in Bali will always hold a special place in my memory. This was the first location I was able to drive myself to on my own. In my previous trips to Bali, I was always friendly and chatty luggage on somebody else’s motorbike (really good at driving cars, and a total dummy when it came to 2-wheeled vehicles). That time, though, I was ready. I took classes, I practiced, and I wanted my first ride to be special.

While I admit that most of my readers will have a different feeling when parking near the cascade of Kanto Lampo (I was so proud! and stressed! and relieved!), the waterfall itself sparks a very similar emotion in everyone. It is one of pure joy.

This air terjun appeared on the Bali map fairly recently, less than ten years ago when the waters of the river Bangunlemah changed their directions after a landslide, and rushed into the gorge and down the rocks, forming scenic cascades.

Kanto Lampo Waterfall Directions 

Kanto Lampo waterfall is located in Gianyar, not far from Ubud, and is the ultimate must-see among other great day trips from Ubud. It is also one of the most memorable waterfalls in Bali, although it might not be as epic as NungNung, or not as magical as Tukad Cepung.

  • So, if you are driving from Ubud, it will take you less than 30 minutes to reach the waterfall. Head in the direction of the Goa Gajah Temple. Once in Gianyar, head east via Jl. Ngurah-Rai Giyanyar, up until the crossroad with Jl. Tukad Melangit. Then head north. Jl. Tukad Melangit will turn into Jl. Gn. Lempuyang. Follow the signs to the waterfall. The parking will be right next to the stairs down to the river.
  • If you are driving from Denpasar, it will take you around 50 minutes to get to the place. The easiest route will be via Jl. Prof. Dr. Ida Bagus Mantra, and you will need to head north, to Gianyar, after the Bali Safari and Marine Park.
Air Terjun Kanto Lampo waterfall near Ubud
On non-rainy days, the waters of the natural pool are clear

Kanto Lampo Waterfall: Things to Know

This is one of the few waterfalls in Bali not involving a hike. This is why a lot of travelers with kids choose to come here. The entrance to the river is not very steep, either. As to the cascades, they might seem unapproachable at first but you will soon find that it is very easy to climb up the rocks.

The cascade is 30 meters high. The water rushes from the river of Bangunlemah, and into the gorge. It looks powerful, it in fact is powerful, but the stream is not too aggressive. You will even be able to sit down on one of the rocks and relax. Mind you that after the rain has fallen, the water may be a bit colder, and also muddier. 

Like in most other touristic locations, there is a ticket desk. The Kanto Lampo waterfall price was 10,000 IDR last time I was there (2018). Included are the changing rooms, WC, and help from the locals that work there. They help with getting into the water, taking pictures, and all this – with a very friendly attitude, Balinese hospitality at its best.

The natural pool at the bottom of the waterfall is not too deep. One small challenge is that the water is not clear so you won’t be able to see the bottom. Hence comes the advice to move carefully to avoid the small rocks. At the same time, you will find that most of the visitors choose to leave their shoes on the bank of the river as there really is not much point in wearing them in the water.

Things to See Near the Cascade of Kanto Lampo

In Bali, there are adventures around every corner, and this part of the island is no exception. Here are the top-5 attractions not far from Air Terjun Kanto Lampo waterfall that are well worthy of attention:

Goa Gajah

Goa Gajah near Ubud

If you like to alternate bonding with nature with a bit of historic sightseeing, Goa Gajah may be a great next stop after the cascades of Kanto Lampo. It might even be a better idea to head here first, and then to soak in the streams of the waterfall. Goa Gajah, translated as the Elephant Cave, is an ancient place for spiritual meditations. It is hidden in the lush jungle park with a pond, a small waterfall, and photogenic trees.

Air Terjun Tibumana

One of our favorite waterfalls in Bali, this is a scenic spot that reminds a lot about those locations we often see in Hollywood movies (about the deserted islands and paradise-like spots). A nice bonus is a lovely walk in the jungle that leads to the waterfall. The entrance fee is 15,000 IDR, and the territory is well-looked after. 

Goa Rang Reng Waterfall

Goa Rang Reng waterfall near Ubud

A set of approachable cascades with easy access to water made the Goa Rang Reng waterfall the ultimate hit among travelers, particularly those who travel with kids. Another factor that makes this location family-friendly is the availability of small bamboo terraces perfect for picnics.

Air Terjun Tegenungan and Blangsinga Waterfalls

Air Terjun Tegenungan waterfall near Ubud

These two are located within approximately 300 meters from one another so we put them under one location. Tegenungan is the postcard-perfect destination often featured on the ads that invite to visit Bali. Here, the river rushes from the cliff and into a natural pool, then turning into a calm stream. It is possible to swim in the pool, and there are also lots of cafes and viewpoints around the waterfall.

Ubud

One day may not be enough to see all the hidden and not-so-hidden gems of Ubud, visit its artistic cafes, haggle at the local markets, and whatnot but if you are driving past the village, definitely stop for some sightseeing.

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